Jeju "Stone Wall Construction" Preserved as Intangible Cultural Heritage, Embodying Islanders' Wisdom

"Active Support for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Listing"

Jeju Stone Wall Construction. Provided by Jeju Island

The traditional construction technique known as "Jeju Stone Wall Construction," which developed within the volcanic island environment of Jeju, will be designated as an intangible cultural heritage of Jeju Province.

On September 18, Jeju Province announced that, following deliberation by the Provincial Intangible Heritage Committee, "Jeju Stone Wall Construction" will be designated and officially announced as an intangible cultural heritage on September 22.

"Jeju Stone Wall Construction" is a unique traditional technique that evolved from the combination of Jeju’s natural environment and way of life. It has been recognized for its high value in terms of historical significance, representativeness, and sustainability.

Due to the volcanic nature of the island, basalt scattered throughout Jeju was both a challenge to overcome and an essential resource for local residents. The stone walls, built using basalt with intentional gaps in their structure, were used for various purposes such as marking farmland boundaries and serving as windbreaks. These stone walls have been naturally passed down through communal life and have become a symbol representing Jeju’s lifestyle and identity.

Even today, local artisans known as "Dolchaengi" continue to uphold this tradition throughout the island. Efforts are also underway to organize and systematize related techniques, terminology, and construction methods, contributing to the ongoing preservation and spread of Jeju culture.

This designation has been made as a community-based category, without recognizing any specific individual or organization as the holder. This reflects the fact that stone wall construction is not a custom limited to a particular region, but a tradition that has been maintained throughout Jeju.

Ko Jongseok, head of the World Heritage Headquarters, stated, "In cooperation with the applicant organization, the Stone Culture Park Management Office, we will actively support the inscription of Jeju Stone Wall Construction on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, so that this technique can become known not only in Korea but around the world."